Savouring the Soul of Vietnam: Pho 55, Malvern’s Hidden Culinary Gem

In the bustling heart of Malvern, there lies a sanctuary of flavours that transports diners straight to the vibrant streets of Hanoi. Pho 55, a family-run Vietnamese eatery, has been quietly enchanting locals since 2015, offering not just meals, but a heartfelt embrace of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. With its steaming bowls of pho perfuming the air and a menu brimming with fresh, homegrown herbs, this unassuming spot has become a beloved staple for those seeking comfort in every slurp and bite. As Melbourne’s multicultural tapestry continues to weave new threads, Pho 55 stands as a testament to enduring tradition amid modern convenience.

A Legacy Steeped in Family and Flavour

The story of Pho 55 is one woven from threads of perseverance, passion, and a deep-rooted love for Vietnamese culinary heritage. It all began in 1998, when the Nguyen family—led by the indomitable Hai—launched Thao Thao Vietnamese Restaurant in Melbourne’s Hampton Park suburb. What started as a modest venture quickly blossomed into a local legend, earning multiple accolades over the ensuing 17 years for its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. Hai’s early involvement in those opening weeks set the tone for a business built on fresh ingredients and time-honoured recipes, passed down through generations.

By February 2015, the family sought a fresh chapter, relocating to the leafy environs of Malvern to establish Pho 55 at 55 Glenferrie Road. This move was more than a change of postcode; it was a deliberate bid to infuse the inner-city community with the soul-warming essence of Vietnam. “We wanted to create a space that’s clean, modern, and welcoming—a place where families and friends could gather without pretension,” reflects the ethos behind the venture. Drawing on their own garden for herbs like basil, mint, and coriander, the Nguyens ensure every dish bursts with garden-fresh vibrancy. Thao, Hai’s steadfast partner in this culinary odyssey, embodies the restaurant’s warm hospitality, her ever-present smile a fixture that patrons rave about.

Today, Pho 55 remains firmly in family hands, with the next generation occasionally lending a hand, preserving the intimate touch that sets it apart from chain eateries. It’s this generational continuity that infuses the space with authenticity—far removed from the homogenised offerings of fast-casual spots. Open seven days a week from 11am to 4pm and 5pm to 11pm, the restaurant caters to harried lunch crowds and leisurely dinner gatherings alike, with takeaway and delivery options ensuring its reach extends beyond Glenferrie Road.

A Menu That Whispers of Home

At Pho 55, the menu is a love letter to Vietnam’s diverse regional cuisines, blending street-food simplicity with subtle sophistication. True to its name, pho reigns supreme—a silken rice noodle soup simmered for hours with star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, crowned with tender slices of beef, brisket, or rare fillet. Priced affordably (around AUD 15-20 for a hearty bowl), the classic sliced beef pho is a standout, its broth so deeply flavoured it could revive the weariest soul. Vegetarians and vegans needn’t feel sidelined; plant-based versions, laden with tofu, mushrooms, and an abundance of greens, hold their own with equal grace.

The offerings extend far beyond soup, encompassing a tapestry of entrees, mains, and specials that showcase the family’s culinary prowess. Start with crispy beef samosas or fresh summer rolls—plump with prawns, vermicelli, and herbs—for a tantalising AUD 8-12 prelude. Rice vermicelli bowls, dressed in nuoc cham sauce and topped with grilled lemongrass beef or caramelised pork belly, offer a cool contrast (AUD 16-22). For those craving wok-tossed dynamism, stir-fries abound: choose from chilli and lemongrass chicken, Mongolian lamb, or black bean tofu, each served sizzling on a hot plate for an extra AUD 1.

Chef’s specials elevate the everyday, with gems like the combination fried noodles— a riot of prawns, squid, beef, and vegetables in a glossy sauce—or aromatic rice dishes infused with curry or ginger. Desserts, though understated, provide a sweet coda: think coconut sticky rice or mango pudding for AUD 6-8. The menu’s inclusivity shines through, with gluten-free adaptations and child-friendly portions ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. As one patron notes, “Everything is fresh… the combination fried noodles [are] yummy,” capturing the unpretentious joy that defines the fare.

Warmth on a Plate: Service and Ambiance That Linger

Step inside Pho 55, and you’re enveloped in a modern haven of pale woods, soft lighting, and subtle Vietnamese motifs— a far cry from the fluorescent glare of some suburban haunts. Alfresco seating spills onto the pavement, ideal for soaking up Malvern’s genteel vibe on balmy evenings, while highchairs and a welcoming demeanour make it a family favourite. The service? Exemplary, with staff like Dan and Thao anticipating needs with effortless charm. “The customer service [is] exemplary & the prices reasonable,” enthuses a loyal diner, echoing a sentiment shared across platforms.

Reviews paint a picture of reliability and delight. “The food at Pho 55 is always delicious. Never a bad meal. Staff are friendly and fun,” shares a family regular, while another praises the “knowledgeable staff [who] work hard, stay positive and make this place wonderful.” With a 4.2-star rating from over 450 reviews and consistent 4.5s on Yelp, it’s clear Pho 55 delivers value without compromise—inexpensive yet indulgent, a rare feat in Melbourne’s dining scene.

Why Pho 55 Endures

In an era of fleeting food trends, Pho 55 endures as a beacon of consistency and heart. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a bridge to Vietnam’s rich gastronomic legacy, nurtured by a family whose journey mirrors the immigrant dream. Whether you’re a pho purist or a curious newcomer, this Malvern outpost promises nourishment for body and spirit—proving that the simplest bowls often hold the deepest stories.

For reservations or to place an order, contact Pho 55 at 55 Glenferrie Road, Malvern VIC 3144. Telephone: (03) 9576 1988. Email: pho55vn@gmail.com. Website: www.pho55.com.au. Delivery available via Uber Eats and other platforms.